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ASCEND Podcast

ASCEND Podcast

Hosted by Jared Tippets and Eric Kirby

BusinessEducationSocietyCultureInterviews guests
WebsiteRSS feed

Episodes

204

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Are you ready to ASCEND to new possibilities? In this podcast, Dr. Jared Tippets and Dr. Eric Kirby outline why a focus on retention and completion is so important, why previous retention efforts have not always worked, and discuss how we can successfully "ASCEND" to these great expectations. In each episode, we will share innovative ideas, creative initiatives, and best practices and strategies that campuses have used to achieve amazing results. This podcast has intentionally been produced in a quick-tip, bite-sized format where the listener can quickly find ideas, initiatives, and solutions that can be tried on campus today.

Listen to episodes

60 recent
August 9, 2026Episode 3834 min

S3 - E38 - Kim Williams and Dr. Sarah Wray Marshall - Innovative academic advocacy model and SMART data platforms (Support & Data)

What if data could help you see every student who needs help, and help you act sooner? In this episode, I sat down with Kimberly Williams and Dr. Sarah Wray Marshall to explore the University of South Florida’s innovative academic advocacy model and SMART data platforms, showing how proactive, holistic support and real-time analytics can move student success from reactive to intentional. Tune in to hear how USF transformed data into action, empowered advocates and advisors, and helped drive meaningful gains in retention and graduation.

August 2, 2026Episode 3719 min

S3 - E29 - Dr. Lo Moser Klink and Justin Mumford - Campus Thrills for Zero Bills: Reducing the Cost of Experience (Affordability)

College isn't just about tuition; It's about experiences. In this episode, we explore how the University of Wisconsin–Madison's innovative No Fees Project is removing hidden financial barriers that keep students from fully participating in campus life. Learn how eliminating the "cost of experience" is increasing belonging, boosting engagement, and helping more students thrive from orientation to graduation. Discover why affordability isn't just about paying for college, it's about making the college experience accessible to everyone.

July 26, 2026Episode 3628 min

S3 - E36 - Dr. Chad Brassil and Joseph Lynch - Using Data for Student Outreach (Data)

How can institutions turn data into timely, meaningful student support? The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Academic Navigator Team uses actionable data such as academic performance, LMS engagement, and student experience surveys to identify students who may need support and connect them with resources before challenges become barriers to success. This episode highlights how proactive, data-informed outreach can strengthen collaboration across campus, close equity gaps, and improve student retention and outcomes.

July 19, 2026Episode 3519 min

S3 - E35 - Dr. Michael Goemans and Dr. Brian Kapinos - Best Practices for Engaging Students in Community Colleges Through Holistic Support (Engagement)

In this episode, we explore how Connecticut State Community College is using a Holistic Student Support (HSS) Survey to identify student needs, remove barriers to success, and strengthen engagement across its campuses. The conversation examines how timely data on issues such as basic needs, technology access, transportation, and sense of belonging enables staff to provide proactive, personalized support before challenges become obstacles to persistence. This episode highlights how a holistic, data-informed approach can foster stronger connections, increase student engagement, and create a more supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.

July 12, 2026Episode 3422 min

S3 - E34 - Dr. Brian Reed and Kayli Julius - Proactive Student Wellbeing: Embedding Wellbeing Coaches for a Cultural Shift at the University of Montana (Culture)

In this episode, we explore how the University of Montana is reimagining student wellbeing by embedding graduate-level Wellbeing Support Coaches throughout academic colleges and culturally specific student support offices. Rather than waiting for students to reach a crisis point, this proactive model emphasizes early intervention, resilience, and culturally responsive care that promotes both wellbeing and academic success. The conversation examines how integrating mental health support into the daily student experience is fostering a more connected, inclusive campus culture while strengthening retention, engagement, and student success.

July 5, 2026Episode 3329 min

S3 - E33 - Joshua Morrison and Dr. Ingrid Ulbrich - Improving Academic Performance and Retention through Process Education (Support)

In this episode, we explore how the University of Indianapolis is transforming the academic trajectory of students facing academic dismissal through an innovative success course grounded in Process Education. Rather than focusing solely on study skills, the course helps students develop essential learning strategies, build resilience, embrace a growth mindset, and take ownership of their academic journey. The conversation highlights how intensive reflection, teamwork, and intentional skill development have led to significant improvements in retention and graduation, offering a powerful model for helping students overcome setbacks and achieve long-term success.

June 28, 2026Episode 3226 min

S3 - E32 - Dr. Kristin Flora and Dr. Andrew Jones - Financial Initiatives Supporting Student Engagement at Franklin College (Affordability)

In this episode, we explore how Franklin College is removing financial barriers that often prevent students from fully engaging in campus life. From textbook assistance and study away funding to professional attire for internships and emergency support for Greek Life participation, the institution has developed creative, targeted initiatives that make high-impact experiences more accessible for students with financial need. The conversation highlights how relatively small investments can strengthen belonging, increase engagement, and contribute to improved student persistence, demonstrating that financial support can be a powerful strategy for student success.

June 21, 2026Episode 3127 min

S3 - E31 - Dr. Nicole Kotlan and Tom Mahon - Retention Tools Workshop Series: A collaboration across campus (Data)

In this episode, we explore how Kent State University developed the Retention Tools Workshop Series to build campus-wide capacity for data-informed student success work. Through a collaborative partnership among enrollment management, information technology, institutional research, and academic colleges, the program equips faculty and staff with practical skills in retention analytics, reporting, Excel, and strategy development. The conversation highlights how professional development, cross-campus collaboration, and a culture of assessment can empower institutions to make better use of student data, create more effective retention initiatives, and strengthen collective accountability for student success. This episode offers valuable insights for leaders seeking to turn data into action and build a shared commitment to improving outcomes for all students.

June 14, 2026Episode 3013 min

S3 - E30 - Dr. Kris Bliss - Behavioral Analytic Nudges (Nudges)

In this episode, we explore how Indiana Tech is leveraging behavioral analytics and personalized nudging to support student success. By analyzing students’ digital engagement patterns and identifying behavioral profiles, the institution is delivering targeted messages that address challenges related to motivation, belonging, confidence, time management, and help-seeking. The conversation examines how data-informed outreach, delivered through AI-powered communication tools, can provide timely support that meets students where they are. This episode offers a fascinating look at the intersection of behavioral science, technology, and retention strategy, highlighting how personalized nudges can help students stay connected, engaged, and on track toward their educational goals.

June 7, 2026Episode 2926 min

S3 - E29 - Dr. Evan W. Faidley - Holistic Support Strategies to Improve Retention (Engagement)

In this episode, we explore how the University of Central Arkansas is leveraging podcasting as a tool for graduate student success, connection, and professional development. Through Grad Chats at UCA, students, faculty, and administrators engage in meaningful conversations about mentoring, networking, wellness, belonging, and the unique challenges of graduate education. The discussion highlights how institutions can use accessible digital platforms to build community, share resources, and support graduate students as they navigate the academic, personal, and professional dimensions of their educational journey.To learn more and listen in, access Grad Chats at UCA episodes using the following links:Spotify: tinyurl.com/gradchatsatuca-spotifyApple Podcasts: tinyurl.com/gradchatsatuca-applepodcast

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